Application Techniques.

How do I apply exterior paint?

Surface
• It is important to know the shape, type and condition of the surface
• Exterior timber (weatherboards, windows, doors, trims)
• Exterior masonry (concrete, brick, fibro walls and fences)
• Exterior steel (outdoor fittings, down pipes, trims and roof)

Preparation
• Make sure all surfaces are clean by washing away grease, dust or dirt
• Remove any loose or flaking paint
• Fill any holes

Application
• Start with fascia boards, gutters and eaves
• Then the walls and next paint down the pipes
• Finish by painting windows, doors and trims

Brush or roller?

Rollers
If using a roller it is best applied onto the wall in a series of close zig-zag strokes. Minimise any spatter by rolling slowly. Never leave a paint-covered roller exposed to the air for any length of time. Either wrap it in plastic cling wrap or stand it in turps or water until it is time for final cleaning.

Brushes
With brushes, as with most tools, there is no substitute for quality. Avoid cheap brushes with short, sparse bristles. Acrylic Paints are best applied with a long bristled, full bodied brush.

Oil based paints, undercoats and primers require a medium bristle length, solidly packed for effective control.

Rough wood, brickwork and cement render may be more practically painted with a synthetic fibre brush.